The focus during the opening match of the double-header at Optus Stadium often shifted from the field to the stands.
The real shotcaller wasn’t Nicho Hynes or Braydon Trindall, although both Cronulla playmakers came up with deft touches that ultimately proved the difference. No, all eyes were on Western Australian Premier Roger Cook, who holds the future of rugby league in his hands.
Expansion was being debated during a game in which, after a dour start, some expansive football broke out. Even if the two best tries of the game, to Will Kennedy and opposing fullback Lehi Hopoate, were (correctly) rubbed out by the Bunker.
All the while, Cook watched on, pondering whether more taxpayer dollars should be allocated to ensuring the Greatest Game of All enjoyed a more permanent place in the west
“We’ve made our position to the NRL very clear, and that is any deal must deliver value for WA taxpayers.
“Since then, we’ve had some positive discussion, and those discussions are ongoing.
Nicho Hynes tries to evade a Luke Brooks tackle on Saturday.Credit: Getty Images
“We won’t be making any further comment until those discussions conclude.”
There is reason for hope of fans of the Western Reds. And also the North Sydney Bears.
Less so, however, for supporters of the Sea Eagles. Blown away by Melbourne in front of their own fans, they were at least in this contest after Luke Brooks scored a runaway intercept try, and then Daly Cherry-Evans scored late, to set up a thrilling finish.
The Sharks, who blew a slender lead at the death last week against Canberra, learnt from that painful lesson to claim the Steve Rogers Cup. Having it in their possession – after travelling to Vegas, Townsville, Canberra and then Perth – will make the trip home more enjoyable.
On two separate occasions in the first half, Trindall set up tries for winger Sam Stonestreet, with a pass and then a kick. And then it was another member of the Sharks spine, Kennedy, who came up with the highlight moment with a stunning solo try.
Manly’s comeback bid wasn’t the only cause for concern late in the game after Addin Fonua-Blake limped off late.
